The Gulf Coast Rail District Board of Directors on Tuesday voted unanimously to modify the district’s contract with Klotz Associates for the Hempstead Corridor Commuter Rail Feasibility Study.
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“We are not changing the amount of funding in the contract, just shifting some funding between tasks,” said Executive Director Maureen Crocker, explaining that the team will expand the study of rail costs versus highway costs, including expenses related to maintenance.

Crocker reported to the board on several items including the Fort Bend County Interlocal Agreement, a Local Project Advance Funding Agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation, and other recent activities. Listen: MP3RealPlayer

The pair explained that the analysis will examine options for development of a series of grade separations and road closures between Cullen Boulevard and Lee Street.
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"Recommended in the TxDOT Houston Region Freight Study, the establishment of this 'closed corridor' would provide significant public and private benefits, including enhanced rail and vehicle mobility, and reduced emissions. It would also enable the establishment of a quiet zone (no train horns required) along the corridor," said the report.

Several at-grade crossings will be examined in the West Belt Improvements Feasibility Analysis.

Scott and York Streets

Leeland Street

Navigation Boulevard and Commerce Street

Lyons Avenue

Canal Street

Milby Street

Cullen Boulevard

Nance Street

Hutchins Street

Runnels Street

McKinney Street

Lee Street

Two other documents related to the project were provided to the board.